We’re incredibly proud of our alumni continuing to reach for the sun and who, in doing so, have become hugely successful in a wide range of fields. From Old Dragons playing for England like Maia Bouchier (OD 2012), and making life-saving apps like Michael Dent (OD 2002), to our Junior Old Dragons making a difference, such as Anya Katanyutanon (OD 2021) who presented her research findings at the World Conference on Public Health (WCPH) and Leo W (OD 2022) who represented the NSPCC at a roundtable in 10 Downing Street.
The latest feature in our Diversity of Dragons series comes from Kana Smith, OD 2016, whose love of creativity first flourished at the Dragon. From imaginative evenings as a boarder to experimenting with art and design, those early experiences shaped a journey that led from café work to a leap of faith into graphic design, to building a career in a field that continues to evolve and inspire.
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It feels like just yesterday that I first arrived at the Dragon, and it’s hard to believe how quickly thirteen years have flown by. What stands out most to me when I think back to my Dragon days, is how the school celebrated everyone’s interests. Whether you were academic, sporty, artistic, or a bit of everything, it felt like each of us had a role to play.
I was always more drawn to the arts and I appreciated how creativity was never restricted. One of my most vivid memories is of my time as a boarder. It was there that I learned independence, but also how to be imaginative in how we spent our time. We made dens, created imaginary massage parlours, designed posters for our walls, or just sat together chatting (a rare occurrence). Growing up in that environment encouraged us to explore our interests, a skill that’s proven essential in later life. I always felt supported at the Dragon which made trying new things far less daunting.
‘There is no “right” way to go through life. Try new things and give it your best shot. At the end of the day, we all are still figuring things out so just have fun and be kind along the way.’
Senior school brought different challenges. As I got older, I became more self-conscious about my work and how I presented myself. Creativity started to take a back seat. Although I pursued Art at both GCSE and A-level, it didn’t quite capture the same freedom I felt in earlier years. Then the pandemic hit, and my final two years of school were spent largely at home. When it came time to apply for university, I felt unsure about what I wanted to do, so I chose not to go.
Perhaps the most important lesson I took away from the Dragon was that it’s okay to take a different path. We all have our own journeys, and while some may find their preferred path quicker than others, what matters most is being passionate and enjoying what you do.
Instead, I spent a few months working in a café to earn some money and to keep busy while I worked out my next steps. Both my cousin and brother completed a three-month intensive graphic design course at Shillington, which led to jobs in the field. I figured I had nothing to lose by giving it a try. At the very least, I’d gain new skills and maybe even discover a new passion along the way.
Not long after completing the course I landed my first job as a Graphic Designer at Oka. I was lucky to join a great team, one that pushed me but also allowed me to grow and discover the things I enjoy about design.
One of the things I love about Graphic Design is that it’s ever evolving, especially with the rise of new technologies. I currently work at Graff, where my day-to-day design work is quite different from my previous role at Oka. The shift has been exciting and has opened up new opportunities for growth and development. Outside of work, I love to illustrate and experiment with art and photography. After spending the week in front of the screen, it’s a real treat toto return to the traditional pen and paper.
Something I really took away from my time at the Dragon was that everyone has their own pursuits and there is no “right” way to go through life. Try new things and give it your best shot. At the end of the day, we all are still figuring things out so just have fun and be kind along the way.
Kana Smith (OD 2016)
Check our Kana’s website: Kana Smith
Let us know what you’ve been up to since your Dragon Days, we’d love to share your story.
